Footwear; with uppers of textile materials, n.e.c. in chapter 64

HS code 640520 covers a diverse range of footwear with uppers made of textile materials, excluding those already classified in other sections of Chapter 64. This industry plays a crucial role in the global textile and apparel supply chain, providing comfortable and affordable footwear options for consumers worldwide. As a labor-intensive sector, it is an important source of employment, particularly in developing economies where textile manufacturing is a significant economic activity.

The production of footwear under HS code 640520 typically involves a multi-step process. The first step is the cutting and shaping of the textile upper materials, which may include natural fibers like cotton or synthetic fabrics. These uppers are then attached to the sole, often made of rubber or other durable materials, using adhesives or stitching techniques. Depending on the design, additional components such as linings, insoles, and decorative elements may be added to the footwear during the assembly process.

The main inputs required for the production of HS code 640520 footwear include textile materials for the uppers, such as cotton, polyester, or blended fabrics; sole materials like rubber, plastic, or leather; adhesives and stitching threads; and various machinery and tools for cutting, shaping, and assembling the components. Manufacturers may also rely on specialized equipment for tasks like molding, pressing, and finishing the final products.

Footwear classified under HS code 640520 is primarily consumed by the retail and wholesale sectors, where it is sold to individual consumers. The output of this industry may also be used as an input for other related HS codes, such as 640610 Footwear parts, 640699 Gaiters, leggings, and similar articles, and parts thereof, and 640590 Footwear, n.e.c. in chapter 64.